Culture Talk

Question for visitors: how do you feel about onsen tattoo rules in Japan?

I am a doctor in Fukuoka and I have many foreign patients and colleagues now. One topic comes up often: hot springs that refuse people with tattoos.

The history is connected with yakuza, so for older Japanese people a tattoo has a strong image. But for visitors, a small tattoo is just fashion or memory of something. Some onsen now allow tattoos if covered by a sticker, some have private baths, some still say no.

I understand both sides. I'm interested how it feels from outside. Did you get refused? Do you think the rule should change, or is it fine because it is our custom?